Licuri Fibers: Alternative Reinforcement to Polymeric Composites

This research is primarily based on the search for alternative natural reinforcements to polymeric composites. This study begins with a complete characterization of the licuri fiber as an alternative reinforcement to polymeric composites. It then investigates the development of a composite laminate made solely from licuri fibers to understand the behavior of the fiber when impregnated in thermosetting resin (orthophthalic unsaturated polyester resin). The composite was developed as a lamina (a sheet with a single reinforcement layer) and industrially manufactured. The fibers were studied to determine their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. The mechanical properties of the lamina were determined by uniaxial tensile and three-point bending tests. Macroscopic and microscopic (SEM) studies of the fracture were carried out to determine the influence of fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion on the final composite for both loads.